A World in Disarray: American Foreign Policy and the Crisis of the Old Order

Imagine a world where constant wars ravaged lands for decades, where rulers meddled endlessly in the affairs of their neighbors, and where peace was a fleeting dream. This was Europe before a monumental shift in 1648, when the Treaty of Westphalia was signed, ending the devastating Thirty Years War. This treaty did something extraordinary: it enshrined the principle of sovereignty, the idea that each state had supreme authority within its borders and that other states should not interfere in its internal matters. This concept became the bedrock of international relations, shaping how countries interacted for centuries to come.

But sovereignty alone was not enough to guarantee peace. The 19th century saw the emergence of the Concert of Europe, a diplomatic orchestra conducted by a few masterful statesmen. These diplomats, with their keen understanding of power dynamics and negotiation, crafted a balance that prevented the continent from descending into widespread conflict. They prioritized order over equality, stability over justice, and managed to maintain peace for decades through consultation and compromise.

Yet, this order was fragile, dependent on the talents of a few individuals and the acceptance of the great powers. It was a lesson in how human agency and skill could shape history, but also a warning that such systems require resilience beyond charismatic leaders. The principles born in this era laid the groundwork for modern diplomacy and the idea that international order is a delicate dance between cooperation and competition.

As we step forward, we will see how these early foundations faced unprecedented challenges in the 20th century, leading to upheavals that would redefine the global landscape. The story of world order is one of constant evolution, shaped by triumphs and tragedies alike.

Let us now journey into the turbulent times of the world wars, where the fragile order was tested to its limits and beyond.